Good Morning. The show(s) must go on. So says gaming scholar Davis Fong, who notes that the attraction of big names to the stage has helped drive Macau’s non-gaming push so far. Due to the shifting demographic of visitors, Fong urges for more of the same, to ensure a solid 2H23. But little visitation will be happening today, as Macau is hit with its first typhoon 8 of the year, grounding flights, halting ferries and closing the bridges linking Cotai to the peninsula, despite casinos remaining open. In the world of tech, an AI experts warn that Asian operators are at a disadvantage, as most data to train AI is based out of the West.
What you need to know
- Gaming expert believes that more concerts in Macau will help the gaming hub rebrand its image towards its non-gaming goals.
- Artificial Intelligence expert says that Asian land-based operators are at a disadvantage, due to a lack of relevant data to model on.
- Macau hit with first Typhoon 8 of the year, closes all links to Hong Kong, cancels dozens of flights but casinos remain open.
On the radar
- ​Macau’s GDP to rise 100 percent in 2H23, says Economic Association.
- Victorian gambling crackdown limits spending, spin speeds.
- Summit Ascent completes acquisition of Okinawa resort property.
- Macau tourism figures continue rebound, topping 11.6 million in 1H23.
AGB Intelligence
MACAU NON-GAMING
Concerts driving Macau’s non-gaming image: expert
Gaming expert and scholar Davis Fong notes that Macau’s rebranding as a non-gaming hub is currently hinging on prestigious concerts and shows, as drawing big names to perform is driving in the new non-gaming consumers, particularly from the region. Given the shifting demographic of visitors – younger and with a female majority – keeping up the rhythm will be key in the summer months to push up 2H23 revenues and visitation.
Industry Updates
- Pragmatic Play begins slots deal with Finland’s Veikkaus Oy.
- TCSJOHNHUXLEY announces launch of its brand-new website.
MEMBERSHIP | MAGAZINE | ASEAN | CAREERS
